Happy New Year

...and all that. I'm a bit of a New Year's scrooge.

Anyhoo.
A lot of people I know had a not-so-wonderful 2009 and I'm praying for a better year for everyone.

I'm praying that another year's worth of anniversaries, birthdays, and holidays will give me the opportunity to do things differently - to react differently and to act with more thought.

I'm praying that those friends who are facing the death of a loved one are able to find hope and strength, and that starting a year with grief won't mark the beginning of an entire year of sorrow.

I'm praying that those friends who are struggling with conflict within their families will be able to find a resolution that is positive and healthy for all involved. Forgiveness. I hope it's the catch-word for 2010.

I'm praying that I can be a better mom to my children and can figure out how to effectively do this 40+ hours a week working mom thing.

I'm praying that my church survives another year and that I'll once again want to be there every Sunday and call my church "home."

I'm praying for wisdom - in all situations.

In general, I'm praying that I'll pray... daily, continually and with an obedient heart. I wasn't on speaking terms with God very much in 2009 and it was miserable. Time for change.